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The majority of sections of the Great Wall of China that have been maintained over the years are still quite challenging to navigate, with no guard rails and steep, slippery stairs. Up until the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, no part of the wall was accessible to people with disabilities, although a few determined people, such as Stephen Hawking, found ways to make it happen. However, in preparation for the Olympics, an elevator was installed at the Ba Da Ling section of the Great Wall so those in wheelchairs can finally partake in the experience.

Step 1

Arrange for transportation between your starting point in China and the Ba Da Ling portion of the Great Wall of China. Book a wheelchair-accessible van ahead of time because they are difficult to come by. Ask your hotel concierge to arrange for transportation to Ba Da Ling if you have a folding wheelchair that can be placed in a standard-sized trunk.

Step 2

Look for a sign across from the Ba Da Ling ticket stand that says "No Barrier" access. Follow that sign up the ramps to the ticket taker and purchase tickets.

Step 3

Choose whether to use the elevator or to continue up the ramps. Continuing up the ramps may involve navigating a few short stairs, while the elevator avoids stairs altogether. Alert the ticket attendant that you wish to use the elevator so they can arrange for a security escort to take you up to the third watchtower. Ride the elevator up to the wall and follow the crowds forward along the wall.